GE opens research centre in Qatar

Doha, April 20, 2011

General Electric Company (GE) has officially inaugurated its $50 million Advanced Technology and Research Center (GEATRC) in the Qatar Science & Technology Park (QSTP).

The project underscores the company’s commitment to innovation, localisation and technology transfer in the Middle East, it said. The total investment of GE in Qatar is now over $100 million.

The inauguration was attended by Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of Emiri Diwan, in the presence of over 100 high-level government officials and business representatives, including Dr Tidu Maini, executive chairman of QSTP, and Akbar Al Baker, chief executive officer of Qatar Airways.

In his key note speech, Dr Maini said: “We are delighted that GE is opening a major research and training centre, the only one of its type outside the US, which will encompass work from the mightiest engines that power super jumbo aircraft to the state of the art diagnostics in cancer, a true homage and commitment to the power of research and technology by GE in Qatar.

“This is yet another example of how under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza Bint Nasser, with the support of leading Qatari Government figures, QSTP is able to work with global corporations to create innovative partnerships in Qatar that support advanced technology and research,” Dr Maini said.

The 20,000 sq m Advanced Technology and Research Center focuses on applied research and knowledge transfer in key areas that drive Qatar’s social and economic growth including aviation, oil and gas and healthcare. It will also deliver process and product enhancement for GE customers across the region.

Nabil Habayeb, president and CEO of GE Middle East, Africa and Turkey explained: “The GE Advanced Technology and Research Center in QSTP leverages the thought leadership of GE highlighted by its four business divisions - GE Global Research, GE Oil & Gas, GE Aviation and GE Healthcare. It is a strong demonstration of our long-term commitment to Qatar and the region to drive applied research, engineering and development, education and training in key growth sectors.”

Akbar Al Baker said: “Qatar Airways is one of the primary beneficiaries of this training facility, and our staff are among the first to undergo training here. The center’s presence in Doha ensures Qatar Airways’ employees are at the forefront of the latest training methods available, receiving instructions right here at the airline’s hub, further cementing the airline’s relationship with GE.”

“The GE 90 engine, the largest in the world, powers all of our Boeing 777 fleet of aircraft. The next-generation GEnx engines will power our Boeing 787 aircraft – which we are proud to be the launch customer of in the Middle East, when we take delivery of them next year,” added Al Baker.